Senior Buyer

at  The Corporation of The City of Victoria

Job Description:

KEY SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Understand and apply the techniques of public sector purchasing.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Evaluate quality, price and suitability of materials, equipment and services.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Organize and prioritize work.
• Make recommendations and facilitate meetings.
• Read related technical drawings and specifications.
• Working level operation of current City of Victoria spreadsheet programs.

FORMAL EDUCATION, TRAINING AND OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATION:

• High school graduation.
• Level IV Purchasing Management Association of Canada’s Certified Professional Purchaser Accreditation Program. (3 years)

EXPERIENCE:

• 4 years of purchasing experience including public sector purchasing and tendering.
  or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Review purchase order requisitions for materials, services and equipment for major projects such as building construction, computer systems and consultant services; determine user requirements and method of procurement; issue purchase orders; liaise with departments and consultants to review detailed specifications and major project schedules.
Compose and prepare documents for pre-qualifications, expressions of interest, request for offers, tenders and request for proposals; determine type and amount of financial security for bidders and contractors; determine supplier list; arrange and conduct site viewings, pre-proposal conferences and product demonstrations for bidders; conduct tender openings, maintain confidential records and provide advice on project contract administration.
Interpret tender results, evaluate products and services, conduct evaluation committee and contract administration meetings, analyze justifications, prepare related spreadsheets and formulate recommendations to supervisor, user departments, Directors, City Manager or Committee of the Whole; negotiate agreements and shipping methods with suppliers.
Approve emergency purchase requests; advise user departments on purchasing policy, procedures and government acts and regulations; make recommendations to supervisor regarding purchasing policy and procedures; review legal decisions, contracts and liability issues with legal advisors; represent the division at meetings with other departments, consultants and committees; respond to enquiries and complaints from departments and suppliers regarding purchase orders, contractual or accounting problems; assist in the administration of the Purchasing Card Program.
Coordinate, review and participate in the work of approximately 2 buying staff; ensure schedules, procedures and established performance and safety standards are met; provide training and input to employee performance appraisals.
Perform related duties where qualified.